The unique climate of Phoenix makes for a rich diversity of animal life that is not found in other parts of the country. Unfortunately, this diversity extends to pests that invade homes and businesses. Here are a few that you should be looking for.
1. American Dog Tick
These tiny pests are eight-legged arachnids that fix themselves onto mammal hosts, latching onto skin to feed. They are most often found on furry pets, though once in a home they can easily spread to humans. If you find any of these suckers stuck to Kitty, know that they could end up on your family as well.
2. Bed Bugs
Despite their short legs and lack of wings, these tiny bugs know how to cover ground. Their 5mm size enables them to hide in cracks and crevices during the day and to emerge during the night for food, leaving you with itchy and bite-covered skin. Bed bugs have been known to stow away in hardcover books, stuffed animals, or backpacks. They are notoriously difficult to eradicate and should be dealt with by professionals as soon as possible.
3. Agapostemon Sweat Bee
Less famous than its relatives the Bumble Bee or killer bee, the Agapostemon bee is a small variety with a metallic green thorax punctuated by the signature black and yellow stripes along its abdomen. While these bees are not known to be aggressive, they are attracted to sweaty limbs, making them dangerous for family members with bee allergies.
4. Arizona Dessert Scorpions
Perhaps Phoenix’s most famous pest is the Arizona Dessert Scorpion. These frightening arachnids can grow to be the size of an adult human palm and hide in dark corners or nooks to wait for prey. While their venom is not fatal for healthy adults, it can be dangerous for small children or seniors. Scorpions can be wily and unpredictable. Always let professionals handle them.
5. American Cockroach
Although they are not actually native to this country, American Cockroaches have, unfortunately, adjusted admirably to the Phoenix environment. These bugs are glossy, reddish brown. They have long wings, but you can usually find them scuttling along your kitchen or bathroom floor. Cockroaches reproduce prolifically during their short life.
If you’ve caught site of any of these pests in your home, ACTION Termite and Pest Control can help you clear them out.
